Horrific discovery on stunning beach leads cops to release $20k reward for information

A horrific discovery was made on a beach in California, leading cops to release a $20,000 reward for more information surrounding the circumstances.

Authorities are continuing to search for the person responsible for fatally shooting a California sea lion in Orange County in August, reports KTLA.

According to a notice from the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) and shared by the Orange County Sheriffs Department, the young sea lion was found with a gunshot wound in its back at Bolsa Chica State Beach on August 7.

Authorities are continuing to search for the person responsible for fatally shooting a California sea lion in Orange County in August

A local rescue organization took in the injured animal, estimated to be around two years old, but it passed away the following day. A bullet was recovered from its body.

As a marine mammal, sea lions are protected under the Marine Mammal Protection Act. 

Violations of this law can result in civil penalties of up to $34,457, up to a year in prison, and forfeiture of any involved vessel.

NOAA has offered a $20,000 reward for information leading to a civil penalty or criminal conviction related to the shooting.